Rosenqvist to focus on Formula E after missing DTM chance

Rosenqvist, who scored a podium position in his second ever Formula E event in Marrakech last November, competed in several championships in 2016, but will concentrate predominantly on his racing with Mahindra this year.

Despite impressing for Mercedes in the final four races of last year's DTM campaign, the 25-year-old was not chosen for one of its six drives after the manufacturer's squad was announced on Thursday.

"I loved competing in the DTM last year, and learned a terrific amount dealing with the pressure that comes with racing for a top-class manufacturer,” Rosenqvist told Motorsport.com.

“It's a fantastic championship, but at the end of the day it just wasn't possible to combine it with Formula E this year, which is obviously a shame.”

Mercedes DTM boss Ullrich Fritz said that the decision for Rosenqvist to not race in DTM was based on his strong start to the Formula E campaign, as the two series have two clashing race dates.

"Felix impressed us very much last year and we would have loved to work with him again in the DTM this season," said Fritz.

"Given his successful first couple of races in Formula E, however, and the fact he could well end up being a championship contender, we have decided together that it doesn't make sense to race in both series this year.

"We will continue to follow Felix closely and wish him all the best."

Rosenqvist, through his manager Stefan Johansson, is believed to also be looking at potential sportscar options for occasional GT and LMP2 races in 2017 alongside his Mahindra commitments.

“So far the only thing we have planned is Formula E, this is the only programme that I have at the moment,” continued Rosenqvist. “It is too early to talk about anything else.

"My main focus is on Formula E, but if I can do something between races I am also happy to do so but the priority is definitely with Mahindra.”

Prema role to continue

Rosenqvist is also set continue his work with the Prema Formula 3 team in the same driver development role he occupied last season, when Williams F1 signing Lance Stroll won the title.

“I enjoy working with the guys at Prema and actually you always pick up something doing it, so it can be helpful,” the Swede said.

“To be involved in this way is a bit like being an engineer and you end up understanding more about what is going on with the car and the driver.”

Speaking of Stroll's F1 prospects, Rosenqvist added: “I think Lance can do well this year. I think he is up for the challenge, he’s a quick learner and he’s very motivated with some good preparation before the season.

"I am confident he will surprise many people and I see no reason why he will not do a good job in his first F1 season.”

Additional reporting by Marcus Simmons